Universal Studios Shuts Down Production On “Fast & Furious 7″

Universal Studios has shut down production on the film indefinitely as execs, producers and the cast and crew to mourn the actor who was killed Saturday with his friend, Roger Rodas, when their 2005 Porsche Carrera GT was engulfed in flames after a horrific crash.

“Right now, all of us at Universal are dedicated to providing support to Paul’s immediate family and our extended Fast & Furious family of cast, crew and filmmakers,” a rep for the studio said in a statement.

“At this time we feel it is our responsibility to shut down production on Fast & Furious 7 for a period of time so we can assess all options available to move forward with the franchise. We are committed to keeping Fast & Furious fans informed, and we will provide further information to them when we have it. Until then, we know they join us in mourning the passing of our dear friend Paul Walker.”

The studio is also mulling scrapping the footage already filmed on the movie and starting over from scratch in the wake of the fatal car crash that claimed the life the franchise star, a source told The Wrap. Since Walker’s death is covered by insurance on the tent pole production, cost would not be a factor in the decision, The Wrap reported.

No matter how they proceed, it’s unlikely the film can make its planned July 11, 2014, release date.

But writing Walker out completely could also upset fans who have been hoping for one last chance to celebrate Walker’s life.